Drug offenses have serious consequences. Let our law firm help you protect your way of life. 

Drug charges are incredibly common in Colorado, but convictions can also lead to serious penalties for seemingly minor offenses. If you are facing drug charges, including possession or distribution, now is the time to contact a criminal defense attorney to begin building your defense or discussing legal options.

Attorney Margaret Teigen Steele represents clients charged with all types of drug offenses in Colorado. Allow us to review the details of your charges and help you build a solid defense against the prosecution's case, or explore your other options.

Types of Controlled Substance Charges in Colorado

If officers find you in possession of controlled substances, you might face one of these charges: possession of a controlled substance or possession with intent to distribute. Several levels of each charge exist, depending on the schedule of the controlled substance and the quantity in your possession.

Possession means that you had controlled substances for personal use and not with the intent to sell or distribute. Drug possession charges can range from misdemeanors to felonies.

For instance, possession of up to four grams of certain Schedule III, IV, or V substances for a first-time offender may be charged as a level one drug misdemeanor. Possession of larger amounts of Schedule I or II drugs, such as cocaine, heroin, meth, or fentanyl, can be charged as a level four drug felony.

Possession with intent to distribute is the legal term for drug distribution charges in Colorado. You might face these charges if officers find you with large quantities of drugs, drug paraphernalia such as baggies or scales, large amounts of cash, or other evidence of distribution activity.

Distribution crimes are generally charged as felonies, and charges can range from level one to level four felonies depending on the schedule and quantity of the substance. For example, someone can face a level four drug felony for giving a small amount of a drug to another person, even if they did not receive any money in exchange for it.

Potential Penalties for Drug Distribution and Possession Charges

Drug possession and distribution charges have serious legal implications, often leading to prison sentences, steep fines, probation, mandatory drug treatment, and other consequences. Misdemeanor offenses can result in up to 18 months in jail, while level one drug felonies have mandatory minimum sentences of eight years in prison, with maximum sentences of 32 years.

In some cases, possession of small quantities of certain controlled substances may be eligible for a deferred judgment or treatment-based alternatives. Deferred judgments and sentencing can lead to case dismissal if you meet certain conditions, such as completing probationary terms and avoiding other criminal activity.

Meanwhile, aggravating factors, such as distribution near schools, involving minors, or involving dangerous weapons, can lead to harsher penalties. Prior convictions can also increase the level of the offense and the penalties you face.

Building a Defense Against Possession and Distribution Charges

For an officer to charge you with drug possession or distribution charges, they need to find drugs on your person or in your property, or have other evidence of constructive possession. They must conduct a lawful search in order for this evidence to be valid.

Unlawful search and seizure is the foundation for many drug charge defenses. To search your property without a warrant, officers needed to have probable cause, gain your consent, or see drugs or related paraphernalia in plain view. Your attorney may be able to argue that these conditions were not present, potentially refuting the evidence officers gathered during the search. Other possible defenses may include:

• • Lack of knowledge that the controlled substance or paraphernalia was on your property
  • Evidence that the substances belonged to someone else, such as a roommate
  • Chain of custody errors, such as mislabeled evidence, that could make certain evidence inadmissible
  • Valid prescriptions or medical necessity for possessing certain controlled substances
  • No intent to distribute and valid explanations for drug paraphernalia or other evidence that led to distribution charges

When Should You Negotiate a Plea Deal for Drug Charges?

As your attorney, Margaret Teigen Steele will help you make informed decisions about the progression of your case. In some cases, negotiating a plea deal may be a wise step, depending on the evidence in your case and the severity of your charges.

The court may offer treatment-based alternatives to typical sentences for defendants who plead guilty to minor drug offenses. You may be able to avoid any jail time or fines by going this route, depending on the availability of a plea deal.

With over 25 years of experience as a criminal defense attorney, Margaret Teigen Steele has defended countless clients facing drug possession/distribution charges. She knows what types of defenses are generally effective and what evidence may be difficult to refute.

Speak With Attorney Margaret Teigen Steele About Your Legal Options

Drug possession and distribution are serious charges that can arise quickly after a single law enforcement interaction. They can remain on your permanent criminal record and impact your opportunities long-term. This is why having seasoned legal counsel on your side from day one is essential to building a strong defense and thoroughly understanding your options.

I value building long-term relationships with my clients, and your future success is extremely important to me.

You may picture criminal defense attorneys as confrontational and abrupt. I take a different approach—my focus is on helping you gain peace of mind, knowing your case is in experienced, dedicated hands.